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Purchasing Associate Jobs in Columbus, NE (NOW HIRING)

Frontier Cooperative

Operations Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

Ops Associates assist customers with purchasing bulk fertilizers, chemicals, & seed, as well as deliver grain commodities to the terminal. * Blend and load Agronomy products; Load & Unload grain ...

Frontier Cooperative

Operations Associate

Osceola, NE · On-site

Ops Associates assist customers with purchasing bulk fertilizers, chemicals, & seed, as well as delivering of grain commodities to the terminal. * Blend, load, unload Agronomy products & grain ...

Walmart

Stocking Team Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Stocking associates must be able to lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds. Ability to operate ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

Walmart

Checkout Team Associate

Columbus, NE · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

... associates run our registers. They smile, greet and thank customers, ring up items, process ... Financial benefits include 401(k), stock purchase and company-paid life insurance. Paid time off ...

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All JobsPurchasing Associate JobsPurchasing Associate Jobs in Columbus, NE

Purchasing Associate information

See Columbus, NE salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do purchasing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for purchasing associate in Columbus, NE is $23.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Associate, you need a solid understanding of procurement processes, inventory management, and basic financial principles, often supported by a degree in business or supply chain management. Familiarity with ERP systems, purchasing software, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required, along with possible certifications like the Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP). Strong negotiation, organizational, and communication skills help you build relationships with vendors and manage multiple priorities effectively. These skills ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions, smooth supply chain operations, and reliable vendor partnerships.

What is the difference between Purchasing Associate vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing AssociatePurchasing Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesAssist in procurement, process purchase orders, maintain supplier infoCoordinate purchase activities, communicate with vendors, track orders
Required SkillsBasic procurement knowledge, organizational skillsCommunication skills, attention to detail, familiarity with procurement processes
CertificationsNone typically required, some may have APICS or CIPSSimilar certifications may be preferred but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, procurement departmentOffice environment, often working closely with procurement teams

While both roles support procurement functions, a Purchasing Associate primarily assists with order processing and supplier data, whereas a Purchasing Coordinator manages coordination and communication across procurement activities. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within the purchasing process.

What does a purchasing associate do?

Purchasing associates monitors company inventory and orders new stock when necessary. As a purchasing associate, you contact vendors, create new order contracts, and ensure the company receives the supplies on time. You may also keep track of inventory budgets and file purchasing paperwork. Qualifications to become a purchasing associate include familiarity with basic office programs and industry experience.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing associates, and how can they be effectively managed?

Purchasing Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple vendor relationships, ensuring timely deliveries, and balancing cost with quality. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with suppliers, and closely tracking inventory levels are key strategies to handle these issues. Additionally, collaborating with internal departments helps align purchasing decisions with organizational needs, leading to more efficient workflows and better outcomes.
More about Purchasing Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Columbus, NE?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Columbus, NE are:

What cities near Columbus, NE are hiring for Purchasing Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, NE with the most Purchasing Associate job openings:

Purchasing Associate jobs near you

Operations Associate

Frontier Cooperative

Columbus, NE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Frontier Cooperative is seeking Operations Associates to assist our Operations department at our Elmwood, NE location. This position is being offered as Full Time with Benefits.
Ops Associates are responsible for a variety of different duties that include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Provides exceptional Customer Service to our Patrons, Customers, & Employees in a courteous & professional manner. Ops Associates assist customers with purchasing bulk fertilizers, chemicals, & seed, as well as deliver grain commodities to the terminal.
  • Blend and load Agronomy products; Load & Unload grain trucks.
  • Deliver products such as fertilizer, chemical, seed, or other to customer site.
  • Verify that company vehicles, equipment & machinery are in good working order prior to use.
  • Perform warehouse & other agricultural related duties such as operating tractors, machinery, forklifts, loaders, bobcats, etc.
  • Assist with routine building, grounds, vehicle, & equipment maintenance.
  • Perform housekeeping inside and outside of all facilities, offices, mills, & elevators.
  • At Frontier Cooperative, safety is our number 1 priority. We don't just say that, we live that. Frontier wants every employee to work safely & return home to their families every evening. Therefore, all employees must maintain & promote a strong safety culture & follow all safety policies, procedures, & regulations.
  • It is also every employee's responsibility to identify & communicate workplace hazards & correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions. Employees must also complete all safety training, complete necessary reports & required record keeping, as needed.
  • On occasion, Ops Associates may assist loading & unloading rail cars when needed.

Minimum Qualifications include, but are not limited to:
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. on occasion, climb ladders, stairs and bins when needed.
  • Ability to operate loaders, conveyors, tractors, farming equipment & other machinery.
  • Ability to work in & around grain, dust, & with Nebraska's everchanging adverse weather conditions and temperatures
  • Ability & desire to obtain a Commercial Driver's License. FC will provide training & testing for the right applicant.
  • Ability to work long hours to meet business demands during harvest.
  • Ops Associates must have the ability to read, write & speak the English language, maintain & promote a positive image of the coop. Dependability & ability to adapt, think & make decisions quickly, be helpful & customer focused at all times is important.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen test
  • Farming, Grain-Handling, &/or Elevator experience is helpful, but not necessary.

For more information & to apply, go to: www.frontiercooperative.com, click on the 'careers' tab at the top of the page, and follow the application instructions.

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